Bidspirit auction | Set 12 Worcester ”Dragon in

Set 12 Worcester ”Dragon in Compartment” Plates - Chamberlain's Worcester, England. Set of twelve ”Dragon in Compartment” pattern number 75 porcelain dessert plates, ca. 1815. Marked with purple pattern number along the underside. The pattern also known as ”Kylin” or ”Bengal Tiger.” Provenance: The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff. Worcester began producing this design in the 1770s. The name comes from the auspicious mythical creature set in the compartments, the Qilin, depicted uniquely with a large mouth emanating with with gilt fire or vapor. A similar creature more akin to a Foo Dog features in the opposite compartment, depicted standing on a plinth holding an object. In the compartments between these two fierce beasts are still lifes of vases and floral sprays. Surrounded by vibrant red, green, and gilt decoration in the borders. The central motif is a chrysanthemum, a symbol of longevity. Overall the pattern is rife with auspicious symbols and motifs. The pattern draws heavily from Chinese Kangxi examples, showcasing the Western desire for imported goods. This pattern is also an excellent example of the cross-cultural exchange that occurred as a result of the import of porcelain goods, showing how Western eyes interpreted Eastern symbology. This is especially evident in the names given to the pattern, ”Bengal Tiger” or ”Dragon in Compartment, ” showing how these mythical creatures were interpreted into known animals in the Western world. (Each) Diameter: 8 1/2 in. Condition: There are networks of scattered and small areas of restoration, visible under UV light, along the undersides and footrims of each plate. One plate with a deep line of crazing along the underside of the rim. One plate with a minute hairline crack along the center of the plate, noticeable upon close inspection. One plate with large Y-form hairline crack along the underside. One plate with two Y-form hairline cracks, one larger, spanning approximately 4 inches along the underside of the plate, and one smaller crack to the right, measuring approximately 2 1/2 inches in length. One plate with a large chip to the rim. Wear and some losses to the gilt and pigment throughout. Light wear along the surfaces, commensurate with use.